We were lucky to catch up with Isaiah Stewart recently and have shared our conversation below.
Isaiah, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
My art whether on canvas or digital is created freely and intentionally, beyond the pressures of society. Each piece is a reflection of the human experience, with hidden messages and layered meanings that speak to love, happiness and peace. I believe in art that uplifts, that reminds us of our strength, and allows people to see themselves within it. My work invites viewers to connect deeply with themselves, with each other, and with the idea that no matter how hard life gets, joy, growth, and transformation are always within reach. I create to inspire, to remind others that dreams are possible, and that clarity of vision paired with persistence is the ultimate power.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Isaiah Stewart also know as Zay the Paintor, and I’m a painter based in Dallas, Texas. For the past eight years, I’ve been creating artwork working across oil, acrylic, and digital mediums. Whether I’m painting on canvas or creating digital compositions, my goal is always the same, to bring a sense of joy, reflection, and comfort to those who experience my work.
Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. As a child, I would run downstairs with a drawing in hand, eager to show my mom and dad what I had created. Their encouragement fueled a passion that has only grown stronger over time. That love for creating found even deeper roots when my amazing wife who’s supported me since we started dating in 2013 gave me my very first canvas. From that moment on, painting became more than a passion; it became a purpose.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working on numerous custom artworks, hosting painting classes and events, and creating original pieces that have been displayed across the Dallas–Fort Worth area in exhibitions and art shows. In 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to have my paintings featured in a stage play at The Black Academy of Arts and Letters in Dallas—an experience I will always cherish.
As an artist, I believe in creating work that invites viewers to experience art from both my perspective and their own. I want each piece to take them on a journey—one that allows them to find meaning and connection in a way that feels personal and true. There’s no greater reward for me than knowing my work has touched someone, even in the smallest way.
I love what I do, and I’m grateful every day to share this passion with others. Welcome to my world of color, emotion, and expression.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In 2020, when COVID hit, everything changed especially for in-person paint classes and events, which had to be put on hold. During that uncertain time, I had to figure out how to continue giving people the freedom to express themselves creatively, even with all the restrictions in place. Later that year, I launched and began delivering Ready Painting & Go kits complete with all the supplies and step-by-step instructions needed to create a personal masterpiece from home. That season reminded me how challenges can bring out true determination and resilience.
Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?
Securing funding for my business was a journey. I worked overtime at my jobs, saved whenever possible, and created countless custom artworks. It wasn’t easy, but every effort was worth it. The process not only helped me grow, it deepened my understanding and appreciation for the business itself.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_zaythepaintor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100055189427218
